The battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal are crucial to understanding the history of this province and top the agenda for many visitors. The bloody Anglo-Zulu and Anglo-Boer Wars ravaged across this landscape for years and are today remembered at key sites, which you can visit as part of a self-drive itinerary through the wider province.

Battlefield Route

A number of driving routes run through the crucial historical battle sites, museums, memorials and graveyards of KwaZulu-Natal. The routes take in some of the important towns of Estcourt, Dundee and Ulundi, as well as sites at Ladysmith, Colenso and Talana.

Isandlwana & Rorke's Drift

The two most important battle sites are those at Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift. In 1879 the British Army was crushed by a Zulu force at Isandlwana in one of the greatest military disasters in British colonial history. The heroic defence of the British garrison at Rorke's Drift involved 139 brave British soldiers who repelled an attack by 4,000 Zulu warriors. In the aftermath, more Victoria Crosses were awarded for valour than in any other battle in history.

Blood River Monument

The national monument at Blood River commemorates the historical battle between the Boers and Zulu in 1838. Both the heritage site and accompanying museums are very informative.